A local dietitian is encouraging locals to enjoy their favourite foods this Christmas

A Townsville dietitian shares tips on how to enjoy foods at Christmas without the guilt and maintaining a heathy mindset. Here’s what they said.

Dietitian Anastasia Freeman is encouraging locals to enjoy Christmas food these holidays.

Locals are being reminded not to feel guilty at the dinner table and to enjoy their favourite foods this festive season.

Townsville University Hospital dietitian Anastasia Freeman said she encourages residents not to worry about body image, and to enjoy food and spending time with family and friends.

“If you feel like an extra piece of Christmas ham or you want some Christmas pudding, there’s no better time than the present,” Ms Freeman said.

“What we want is for people to enjoy the time spent with their family and friends, [and] enjoy their favourite foods.”

Ms Freeman said it’s important to speak up if family members are commenting on body image.

Dietitian Anastasia Freeman is encouraging locals to enjoy Christmas food these holidays.

“Joking and lighthearted jabs about overindulging at Christmas time is inevitable, but it can also be a really hard time for people who are struggling with body image and negative connotations around food,” Ms Freeman said.

“If you notice those conversations coming up, you can chime in and say, ‘oh, actually can we change the conversation?’ or, ‘that’s not something I want to talk about this year.’

“Food is just food, there’s no good or bad, and Christmas is about enjoying the time spent with family and friends and making memories without feeling guilty or burdened by your food choices,” she said.

If you or someone you know is struggling this Christmas, support resources are available through the Butterfly Foundation’s website.

Originally published as A local dietitian is encouraging locals to enjoy their favourite foods this Christmas